Species

Farfugium japonicumJapanese Leopard Plant

13 other cultivars

perennial

Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant

Farfugium japonicum 'Ferris Wheel'

The Story

Plant Bio

Farfugium japonicum 'Ferris Wheel' is a perennial evergreen plant featuring broad, rounded, leathery leaves with variegated patterns and clusters of yellow flowers that emerge in late autumn and winter.

This cultivar is distinguished by its unique, wheel-like leaf variegation and its ability to provide ornamental interest during the colder months when many plants are dormant.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage and bright yellow flowers, adding vibrant color to shaded gardens.

Prefers moist, well-drained soil, thriving in shaded conditions, ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Supports insects and provides cover for small wildlife in shaded woodland areas.

SpeciesFarfugium japonicumJapanese Leopard Plant

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Fall – Late spring

In flower about 8 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded spot with moist, well-drained soil
Tuck seeds or divide existing plants in early spring
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
Plant in early spring or fall for best results
Keep soil consistently moist during growing season
Mulch around plants to retain moisture

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and shade for healthy growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 💧
Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds
Divide plants every 2-3 years to maintain vigor
Use organic fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with lush foliageMoist garden bed with variegated leavesUnderstory planting in woodland gardens

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant questions

What zones can Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant grow in?

Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant deer resistant?

Yes — Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant bloom?

Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant typically blooms in fall through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant need full sun?

Ferris Wheel Japanese Leopard Plant does best in part shade.